CTE, Pathways, and Preparation Service Area Overview
At the heart of the Career and Technical Education (CTE), Pathways, and Preparation Program lies a commitment to nurturing a cadre of proficient and flexible individuals, fully prepared to navigate the complexities of the global marketplace. This program is founded on the principles of forging robust partnerships, offering extensive support and guidance, fostering innovation, and promoting collaborative endeavors. We are dedicated to transforming our students, educators, administrators, and partners into pivotal agents of change, equipped to shape the future workforce. Through this holistic approach, we aim to not only meet the immediate needs of today’s economy but to anticipate and adapt to the unforeseen challenges of tomorrow, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for all.
Career and Technical Education (CTE)
Career and Technical Education (CTE) offers students practical skills and knowledge to prepare them for success in the workforce and beyond. Through hands-on learning experiences, CTE programs equip students with the technical expertise, critical thinking abilities, and employability skills needed to thrive in a variety of career pathways, ranging from healthcare and engineering to hospitality and information technology. By integrating academic knowledge with real-world application, CTE empowers students to explore their interests, gain valuable industry certifications, and pursue meaningful career opportunities, ultimately bridging the gap between education and the workforce.
GEAR UP
This discretionary grant program is designed to increase the number of low-income students who are prepared to enter and succeed in post-secondary education. GEAR UP provides six-year or seven years grants to states and partnerships to provide services at high-poverty middle and high schools. GEAR UP grantees serve an entire cohort of students beginning no later than the seventh grade and follow the cohort through high school. GEAR UP funds are also used to provide college scholarships to low-income students.*
*Courtesy of U.S. Dept. of Education GEAR UP site
Pathways
Pathways offer students a structured sequence of academic and technical coursework aligned with career themes, providing a clear roadmap from high school to postsecondary education and beyond. These pathways integrate rigorous academic content with hands-on learning experiences, industry-relevant certifications, and work-based opportunities, ensuring that students graduate with the skills and credentials needed for success in today's competitive job market. By offering diverse pathways tailored to students' interests and career goals, Pathways aims to address the evolving needs of the workforce while empowering learners to pursue fulfilling careers and contribute to economic prosperity.
Military
The military serves as a vital career option offering unique opportunities for personal and professional growth, alongside a profound impact on national security and global stability. Individuals considering military service are presented with a diverse array of career paths spanning various branches and specialties, from combat roles to technical fields. Beyond offering competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for advancement, military careers instill invaluable leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills that are highly transferrable to civilian life. Moreover, the military plays a crucial role in fostering a sense of duty, patriotism, and service to one's country, making it an honorable and rewarding career choice for those seeking to make a difference and serve a higher purpose.
Career and College Navigation Resources
Career navigation is a vital aspect of personal and professional growth, guiding individuals through the complex journey of exploring, planning, and achieving their career goals. At its core, career navigation encompasses the process of self-discovery, skill development, and strategic decision-making to navigate the ever-changing landscape of the job market. By leveraging resources such as career assessments, educational programs, mentorship opportunities, and job search strategies, individuals can effectively chart their course towards fulfilling and rewarding career paths. Whether embarking on a new career journey, seeking advancement opportunities, or navigating career transitions, career navigation empowers individuals to take control of their professional futures and realize their aspirations.
Perkins Shared Service Arrangement
The Perkins V Shared Service Arrangement (SSA) serves as a pivotal mechanism for enhancing the delivery of career and technical education (CTE) services to students across diverse educational settings. By pooling resources, expertise, and best practices, the Perkins V SSA facilitates collaboration among educational institutions, enabling them to leverage collective strengths and address common challenges. With a focus on optimizing efficiency, expanding access, and promoting innovation, the SSA empowers schools and districts to offer high-quality CTE programs that align with local workforce needs and industry demands. Through this collaborative framework, the Perkins V SSA fosters a culture of continuous improvement and equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in today's dynamic job market.